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Interferon-alpha treatment of children with chronic hepatitis D virus infection: the Greek experience

G N Dalekos1, E Galanakis, E Zervou

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Pediatrics Medical School, University of Ioannina, Greece.

Hepato-Gastroenterology
|October 6, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Interferon-alpha therapy for children with chronic hepatitis D was safe, showing mild side effects and improved growth. However, it proved relatively ineffective in clearing the virus or improving liver histology.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Virology

Background:

  • Limited therapeutic options exist for children with chronic hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection.
  • This study retrospectively evaluated interferon-alpha treatment in pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the efficacy and safety of interferon-alpha in children with chronic hepatitis D.
  • To evaluate treatment outcomes based on virological, biochemical, and histological markers.

Main Methods:

  • Seven children with chronic HDV infection received interferon-alpha (3 x 10(6) U/m2) three times weekly for one year.
  • Monthly assessments included hematological, serological, and biochemical tests, alongside HDV-RNA, HBV-DNA, HBsAg, and HBeAg monitoring.
  • Liver histology was also evaluated as a response criterion.

Main Results:

  • Alanine aminotransferase levels decreased significantly, but HDV-RNA persisted in 4 children.
  • No seroconversion of HBsAg or HBeAg was observed, and liver histology showed disappointing progress.
  • Side effects were mild and transient, with children maintaining activity and showing improved growth parameters.

Conclusions:

  • Interferon-alpha demonstrated a safe profile in pediatric chronic hepatitis D but was relatively ineffective.
  • The findings underscore the urgent need for more effective treatments targeting the HDV genome.
  • This study reinforces the importance of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination for preventing HDV infection.
Abstract

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